Heading out to visit schools? We've put together quick guides for students visiting colleges or graduate schools across the country by talking to students actually study there. Yale alum James Yin ('07) answers our questions about today's destination:

New Haven, CT

Schools Nearby: Yale University, Southern Connecticut State University, Albertus Magnus College, Quinnipiac University, Paier College of Art, University of New Haven

Where to get a cup of coffee off campus/the local coffeeshop where students hang out:

My favorite two coffee shops around Yale are Blue State Coffee on York Street and Koffee on the corner of Whitney Ave and Audubon St. Both are fun places with some nice seating (if you can find a seat) that are close to campus. Blue State is closer to the dorms and therefore is usually a better place to run into students, but Koffee is about 2 blocks from the Admissions office and the better bet if you're visiting.

A good, fast place to grab lunch in town

Louis Lunch (Crown St.) is an icon and should be tried, though it can be very crowded around lunchtime. They claim to have invented the burger and refuse to serve ketchup in the building. Gourmet Heaven is very close to campus and makes some excellent sandwiches if you're looking for something on the go.

A reasonably priced restaurant for dinner:

New Haven is all about pizza and it would be a tragedy to visit and leave before trying a traditional New Haven-style slice. There are several pizzarias to choose from and everyone is very particular about their favorites. Sally's and Pepe's (both on Wooster St) are the big names here, but if you'd like to stay closer to campus, BAR (Crown St.) is the only place to go. During the week, there isn't usually a large line, but the weekends can get crowded.

What To See in Town:

If you have time to see some other areas of Campus that aren't on the tour, both the Yale University Art Gallery and the Yale Center for British Art are open to the public and are worth a visit. If you are up near the Admissions office, stop by the Peabody Museum for a quick visit.

Where to Stay:

Hotels around New Haven tend to book quickly, especially around graduation and other important events, so make reservations early. There is a Courtyard by Marriott right on the edge Campus that is very accessible and fairly large. If you're looking to spend a bit extra, try The Study At Yale.